LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 

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ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 



A Tragedy 



-> IN FIVE ACTS. ^ 



5 T 



^' FREDERICK RICE. - 












SAN FRANCISCO: 

1882. 

Kiitered ;u<Mir(liiij to the Act of Congress, in tlu' year is.sj. l,y 

FREDERICK RICE, 

In theOffici'ofthf I.ilmtrianof Coiisress.at Washington. All Rights Roserve<l. 



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CHARACTERS. 



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A LEXANDEE Kiiiy of Miiretldiii:! 

DAKiris Kino- (,tPei-si;i 

H E P H AST I A X j 

i )EMETEIII,S j 

S KL E U < ' A S 

Pt( )IjE JI Y 

Anti pater [ 

Cahsaxder I 

CiiiTrs I 

Aristotle I Pliilosdi.licis 

DiOGENKS ) 

Pitocian All (.1111(1 

SisiGAAiBEs Dariu.s' MotluT 

Statiba Hi.s Wile 

Philip Alexander's Physician 

RoxAXA Alexander's Wile 

TiiAisA Alexander's Mistress 

pARMKXio Alexander s General 

Res^us Persian Go veriK )r 

Priests and Priestesses, Doctors, Jews, Citizens, Ladies, 
Soldiers, A Robber. 




ALEXANDEE THE GREAT. 



ACT I. 

ScKNE I.— Temple in Delplii— A i)riestess sittin.^' on a tripod- 
A viipor rising from an opening- in the ground. ( I'riests.) 

1st Pkiest. Fortune smiles again; 

This time we are not ho])iiig in vain. 
2(1 Prikst. Why so brother? Si)cak! Let me hear! 

Good news are charms to a mortal's ear. 

Sure enough; you have tidings good, 

Which brought you in a happy mood. 
Is' I'RiKST. Y.iung Alexander, Piiilip's son, is now 

Hound to fuliili his lather's vow. 

With Persia he is g dug to light; 

He is protector of Grecian rigiit. 

But on so great an enter] )rise 

He dare not venture without our oracle's advice. 
2d Priest. Wiiy.^ His lather fonght so many a battle. 

But his gold was never known to rattle. 

It is iieyond the memory (d'mine 

That he gave' a cojiper to our shrine. 

Still he was always victorious; 

His career was called most glorio;-s. 
1st Priest. He was a miser; he was a knave. 

Although he our temple protection gave, 

He thought he showed great afle-tion and love 

By taking laurels irom our sacred grove. 

Wrapped ihem round his temj)les wlien in triumph 

So he might hide his m'ser's bumj). 

He was cunning and sh;:i'p like a hawk. 

But Alexander has the eagle's walk. 

Like the lornier, Philip showed pluck and nnght; 

Young Alexander resembles the latter in Hight. 

\Vithout a good answer from this oracle. 

His host of heroes will be a sad spectacle. 

The (ireeks will have no faith in him. 



4 ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 

Think themselves objects of whim or wrath of the 

Gods eternal, 

And be as worthless as shells without kernal. 
2d Priest. How could Philip .so well inspire his host 

And lead them to conquest, 

When of faith none could boast. 
1st Priest. They were barbarians, savages,brutes in human shapes, 

In their habits resemble apes. 

Some were intidels, ruffians, outcasts from Greece; 

They thought by following him they .should capture 

the Golden Fleece. 

They would follow liim through any mire, 

If they thought they could gratify their wild desire. 

They would luive torn the world asunder 

To (juench their thirst for blood and plunder. 

For tliem there was no sacred soil; 

They had no other aim than spoil. 

Alexander is as pious as he is brave; 

A great education him Aristotle gave. 
1st Prh ^j:. From him he tlio.se ideas of virtue and homjrreceived, 

And faith in the gods in wliom liis father^Jljeneved. 

Like the planets in the firmament are lighted and 

guided by the sun, 

So are the heroes of Greece in their run 

Led and directed by Alexander; 

In his course they gladly wander. 

They will follow him after the (xolden Fleece. 

He is the rising sun of Greece. 

Enter Sei.ucas and Cassander. 
Cassander. Hail! ye servants of the eternal gods; 

Hope our arrival make no odds. 

We bring Alexander's warmest greeting; 

Sorry lie could not come to this meeting. 

Yonder .soldiers carry up the sacrifice; 

Hundred talents a sum (juite nice. 

This after a liberal measure, 

A handsome addition to your temple's treasure. 
2d Pbiest. Alexander's praise we long shall sing; 

A noble gift; worthy so great a king. 
1st Priest. I'll go behind the alter, 

. Kneel down and sing a jjsalter. 

Bend my head down to the sod 

And thereby move the Almighty God. 
Priestess (Sighing). I see a form but dim. 

oh, now I see it plain! I see liim! 

A man in stature low; 

His beard is heavy, bent is his brow. 

Fierce are his eyes; 

Wrinkles and furrows lies o'er liis forehead; 



ALEXANDEK THE GEEAT. 5 

His skin the color of lead. 
2d Priest. King Philip's spirit, 

Which to our oracle will be a great merit. 
Priestess. He spoke while I trembled and shook. 
2d Priest. His words let us hear; 

We are all ear. 
Priestess. What I commenced you shall complete. 

In valor none with you shall more comepete. 

But are you lost in passion's wave, 

In prime of your career be ready for the grave. 
1st Priest. This is what we call a good oracle. 

To you it might be a strange spectacle. 

It is distinct and plain, there is no mixture or mess; 

Was ever a mortal more sure of success? 

True it has a shadow of strife; 

But so is life; 

There is no rosebush without thorns; 

Seldom a foot found free of corns. 

He knows his dangers 

Wherever he ranges. 

Has no cause to be annoyed 

By dangers he knows and can avoid. 

Scene II — A square in Corinth. 
Diogenes and his barrel in a corner — Alexander and followers 

. — Citizens. 
Alexander. Hail! ye citizens of Greece; 

My love for you shall never cease. 

We are waiting for Selucas and Cassander, 

Whom I to Delphi sent 

To give report how the oracle went; 

Good or bad as the case may be; 

Ye know the gods take liberty 

And steer the mortal's course. 

By their oracles we have a source 

To get a glimpse of our destiny; 

A source they left us of charity. 
Citizens. A measure that is very wise; 

Worthy the hei'o of Greece in his rise. 
Alexander. It is a custom of old among the Greeks 

To be foretold of the Delphi oracle, 

Before the enemy they tackle. 

Before they ventured on a hazardous enterprise 

From Delphi they always had some good advice. 
Enter Selfcas and Cassander. 
Alexander. Impatiently we are you awaiting; 

Tell us how. Was the debating 

In the holy temple of Apollo? 

Shall we stav or shall we go? 



6 ALEXANDER THE (UlEAT. 

('assani)ER. But I must lament 

That I should represent 

You know liow it is. 

v>o I hardly need luentiou 

How such iliinu's go. 

Jk'vond my comprelieusion. 

I am as you know a poor believer; 

And look at tlie priest, as a mere dereiver, . 

Who plays his tricks like politics; 

How anxious he is to keep in tix. . 

The harness he got on tlie ignorant mass; 

By superstition he leads them like a blindfolded ass. 
Ai-KXANDEE. (n s(m;e points you are right may be; 

liut you take too much lil)erly. 

Hard against i'aith and religion you batter; 

And still you don't comi)rehen(l tlie matter. 

^\'e must have religion and priesthood, 

Or else be rude, brutish and beastly. 

There must be a power, now we call it priestly. 

To edi cite and develop num. 

Fit him and form him so tiually lie can 

After he leaves his earthly tomi), 

Associate with (iod's eternal in the woriils to come. 

To you it juav have a cliildisli asi)ect 

The way rH^religion tries to ^ect. 

Not so with the non-skeptic mind; 

Faith is his guide; he will roinid it wind. 

The common man has not far out-grown hiscliildhood; 

Because lie rv)ams not like a savage through wildwodl. 

By degiees his head wi'l be clearer, 

And clianging his mood 

He then must be guided ditlereut from what he is now; 

But 'fore guides and leaders he will always bow. 
Seluccas. The oracle s})oke tlirough ycuir father's si)irit. 
Alexandee. Speak! Speak! let us hear. 
Skj.i'Ctas. "What I commenced. ye shall complete; 

In valor none with you shall more conqiete. 

I>ut iire you lost in passion's wave, 

In [u-ime of your career l)e ready !or the grave. 
Aeexandkr. Hopeful and cherishing is tiie sound; 

Still it seems for s^ row iiound. 
Cassandkr. Don't let lliis cursed nonsense 

Weigh your courage and humor down to rciientance. 

Don't let it be said of Alexander 

That he rHund like a shadow wamlcr. 
Alexander. Don't be alarmed; have no iear; 

You shall never tind me in the rear. 
AxTii\ Come let us take a little stroll; 

Look at tlic great Diogenes, 



ALEXANDEK THE GREAT. 7 

Whose fame is none the less 

Because lie made a barrel his house, 

And worries about to imitate a dog or a mouse. 

DjMT. Why don't you get a chain 

To tie round your neck, so you could be proud and vain 

Of being inventor, 

Make it fast to your barrel's center. 

Heph. Hail! you wisest of m irtals; 

Rather low is your palace's portals. 

How do you fare of late? 

Is none allowed inside your gate? 

How is your house? Does it leak? 

I'll sound it and give it a kick. (Kicksthe barrel.) 

Alexander. Stop comrades! stop! no more ridicule; 

To mock at misery is agains.t my rule. 

I'll treat him kindly and upon him bestow some caress; 

How can I serve you Diogenes? 
DiOGEXES. Stand out of my way 

And give the sun its sway. 
Alex.\nder. Is that all you can possibly ask of me? 
Diogenes. I am proud as you and still more free. 

Alexander! By .Jove! lie surprises me; 

H )w independent, proud and free 

He is in spite of his misery. 

By Hercules! Was I not Alexander, 

Like Diogenes would I wander. 
Ptolemy. Whilst you were satisfying your curiosity, 

A messenger came and tidings brought 

Of a battle they fought 

Against the barbarians, of whom 

They are now besieged in a little fort; 

The time is but short till they must surrender. 

Alexander. U]) heroes! we'll teach them a lesson dear, 
So they shall not come near our frontier 
For years to come. These barbarian 
Hordes shall keep a distance from our borders. 
(Shouts and flourish.) 

Scene III — Thebes in ruins — Alexander and followers. 

Alexander. Now here the Thebans have had their reward; 
I them have shown my best regard. 
Tiieir city in ruins lain; 

Six thousand of their ablest Tiien were slain. 
It served them right 



8 ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 

To break the peace witli force and might. 

My garrison in Cadmea tliey made war upon 

Whilst I was gone. 

I gave tliem time enough to repent. 

Oh? tliey t)nly hiughed and on tliey went. 

For the gate of peace they tliemselves put tlie bar; 

And now they must sufier tlie result of wfir. 

Cruel it seems the people were deceived; 

Led to insurrection by leports of my death they believed; 

But how v.'ill I rule this tunndtuous, obstinate set. 

Always restless and ready 

To be led l>y orators, demagogues and politicians; 

Men of talent but base under all conditions. 

Avaricious, sellish auvl cruel; 

Little they care if the State is cut up for fuel. 

80 they themselves may rise in power; 

On the peoi)le's ruins (hey build their tower. 

Kow busy they are in pulling the wires 

So they can gratify their vile desires 

To roll in wealth and luxury 

And mock at people's povertv. 

This shall not be! I'll lay The!)es waste 

To teach the Oreeksa lesson they'll not foi'get in haste. 

So must, so shall it be. 

Justice only makes mankind free. 

Pity and mercy are vix'tues sublime; 

But shown to the criminal to society is crime. 

The groans of the wounded and dying I liear; 

The women's and children's lament still rings in my ear. 

Antip. Are you thinking of the grand and holy? 
You look so sad and melancholy. 

.\i.EXANDEH. Just thought of the curse of war, 
Avarice and andiition's bar 
For peace and happiness of nuui. 
So was my reflection; 
How to give my j>rotection; 
H )w horrible and grand to be a king 
And leader in the war gcxls' ring. 

AxTP. By Mars! the Atlieuiaus o,iglit to fare like the Thebans 

of late; 
For ihey liave a right to share an eipial late, 
How busy they were to form this plot; 
I think they are the guiltiest of the lot. 

Alexander. Orders I gave them to deliver 

Ten orators of the very best quiver. 
Demosthenes stood foremost on tlie list 



ALEXAXDEK THE GREAT. 9 

Among tlioise I would like to decorate with irons on 

the wrist. 

They liad a council where Phocion said 

He desired to be delivered. 

Their machinations brougbt misery on the state 

And they were to blame for its fate. 

He. for liis part, should lie glad 

To die for the commdnwealtli 

If he tlierel)y ciMild alter its fate so sad. 

.Vthens was saved. 

My Avrath cooled down and away it waved. 

(ireat is my joy to have found a toy 

Whidi like a magic rod in my iiand 

ShaH reform and correct a degraded band. 
Pt,). He ought have a reward. 
Alkxandek. I sent Demetrius with a guard, 

A hundretl talents as a present to him. 
Pt(i. Your Iteuevolence floats to the lirim. 

Enter Dkmetkhs. 

Alex. How did he the present receive? 
I)Ejr. It is iuird to l)elieve; 

He refused the present to take; 

Still he is in jxiveny's wake. 

Enter Phocion, 
I'iro. Why has thisjelection of such a ))ounty been my fate? 
Alex. liecause you are, after my measure, 

The only just and honest nuui in your state. 
Pho. Then let me sufl'er to be what I am; 

And not l)v your gold l)uild a dam. 

Which only will clieck my lu^nest career 

And destroy my fame's fovmdation tier. 

Let me on my old platform stand. 
A]>Ex. Nolde! (irand! Hear what orders Darious gave; 

Philip's crazy b(\v goes out from his cai^"; 

Give him a flogging and send him home; 

That will break his desire to roam. 

By my ancestov AcliillesI 

His jiride and vanity slmll be less; 

When first he gets to test our swords, 

He shall speak in less insulting words. 

ANriPATOR. You at home shall stay; 

Keep things smooth and our enemies at bay. 
Twelve thousandrnen, that's all I can spare; 
Be pru;lent ami mild but firm without scare. 



10 ALEX A^- DEE THE GREAT. 

Before I leave my native shore 

1 give you my treasure spoils that my father tore from 

down-trodden nations; 
For me they are unwholesome rations. 
Divide them as hest you please; 
First then will I feel at ease. 

Cas. You must be insane or else terrible vain. 

Don't give your generosity such monstrous roi>es. 
Alex. Oh! I am rich! I keep my hopes. 

(Enter Aristotle.) 

Blest be this hour, my joy is not in vain; 
How hap])y 1 feel to meet you again. 

Aristotle. My beloved pupil and honored King; 
Before you lead on your heroic ring 
And venture on your daring enterprise, 
Take hrst a little counsel and advice. 
The grace of tlie gfxls is over you now. 
And always will be if you don't break your vow 
And give your evil passions might; 
Be true to the noble, good and right. 
You will concpier! Wliy should you not; 
Great are the gifts that fell in your lot. * 
You are the bravest among the l)rave; 
Your foe a weak, faint hearted knave. 
Your host of freeman are heroes in mails; 
His countless swarms cowards and thralls. 
Forward with a daring leap; 

They will spread and scatter before you like sheep. 
Now, when you are conqueror proud, 
Let mercy's voice in your heart speak loud. 
Be forbearing and tolerant 
And you shall see how you will enchant 
The hearts of millions. Y^ou shall win 
If you keep clear of tyrant's sin. 
In forcing others to their own belief; 
Let themselves seek for relief, 
By their faith aspire to ease; 
Let them worship as they pie ise. 
Most of all control your mind; 
First then you the true glory shall find. 
He wlio keeps his heart open for pity 
Is greater than he wlio takes a city. 
Now go forth on your glorious road; 
Ta^ke off the load; break the chains that bind the slave 
Roll on like the ocean wave. 
Y'our principles true shall have success; 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 11 

And be hailed as liberator for a world in distress. 
Farewell my pupil! My hopeful King! 
The leading spirit hero's in ring. 
Alexander. Farewetl my teacher! My guide in youth! 

When I take your counsel my measures will suit. 
If not before we will meet at Olympia's portals. 
Farewell, Aristotle, the wisest of mortals. 
Chort's. Now we are ready for Asia's coast, 
We are ready to start; 

Of victories none shall the Persian's boast. 
In his stately cart shall Darius tremble and shake; 
Wiien our phalanx smart in liis ranks a wide opening 

will make. 
Forward for the Golden Fleece! 
Conquer or die for tiie glory of (Greece. 

We will resemble the heroes of old. 
Of whom Homer so beautiful told. 
Re like the famous conquerors of Troy; 
In peril and danger we look for our joy. 
Our battle ci-y, the Gcdden Fleece; 
Conquer or die for the ghu-y of Greece. 

ACT II, 

Scene I — Battle of Granicus — Alexander's army. 

Parmenio. I do advise you to delay 

All further movements and await the dawing of a 

brighter day, 
If we persist we leave ourselves a prey in our enemies' 

hand; 
We are too w&dk to match that for.nidable l)and. 
This river too seems difficult to ford; 
How will it be to route out Asia's horde? 
Too hard a task to climb these steep and rugged banks; 
And harder still to l)reak their firm and solid ranks; 
If here us any mishaps meet. 
Our bold ailvanoe will end in sad defeat. 
At.exandeu. Before it shall 1 e said 

That here the Greeks have fied, 
We'll fill this river up and bridge it with onr dead. 
Charue! 
ScEXE II— Temple in Gorditnii— An ancient chariot in a corner— 

Ptolemy, Demetrius, Hephacdn. 
Ptolemy. By Mars! this was a glorious battle; 

The wide world over our fame will rattle. 
Dem. If not for Alexander's da.^^h. 

Our fame might have had a terrible smash. 
Heph. By taking Parmenia's advice 

I saw "hf* Wr^" r^ nif^'^ "f S esostris , 



1_> ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 

We would have failed in our enterijrise. 
Sel. Sure enough! a further delay 

Would give the enemy too much sway. 
Ca.s. A .stron^:; position and easy to keep, 

On (iranira's banks, rug^eJ^nd steep. 

Tlie stream was ver}' hard to cross; 

Our cavalry suflered heavy l().ss, 

How the rapids roared and frowned; 

1 saw many waslieu away and drowned? 
Dem. I saw Alexander slay two Persian (;liicers, one a chief! 
iSel. But he himself was in need of reiie.. 
(Ja.s. If not for Ciit'.is he would now be dea<l! 

How the Persians for him mad.e; 

His iielmet cleft, blood .ran over his face; 

They hewed him with sword and mace. 

Oh! how 1 felt, not abie to give tliem a belt; 

I was pressed -so tight in llie mass; 

And there 1 stood like a looi and an ass. 

C!litus came now! Oil, what a r(.w! 

What blows he strack; helmets and cuiraser lie broke 

like ;usiK'il 

His sword can tell. 

For every blow a Pei'sian bit the grass; 

lie made an opening in tlieir muss. 
Heph. Ami may his praise forever sound; 

His e(iual is not easy found. 

Enter Alexandek and Clitu.s. 

Ci.iTus.'Xow here the old chariot stands, 

On which King Midas tiel his l)ands. 
/VLEXANDEE. And lus old prophecy to it clings; 

About a knot that rings 

From the yoke to the p^ie; 

He who looses it sliall be the sole 

Sovereign of Asia, i wili give iiiisfdd prophecy sway 

And untie it in my own \vay. 

To say the truth it is a qu.eer old buzzle, 

And sure for me it is a puzzle. 

(Cuts it apart with his sv.T.rd.) 

This may not be after the pr.iphet's will; 

We will see now the prophecy does fultiil. 

But I think 1 am able to carry it out. 

And put King Darius to route. 
Scene III — Tarsus— Alexander lying sick — Doctors. 
1st Doctor, (ireat King, your case is desperate; 

You caught an awful cold 

In being so rash and bold 

To bathe in yonder stream. 

When you were heated up to steam. 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 



13 



This cold has settled on your lung; 
Plow painful in my ears it rung. 
When 1 heard yo,i cosigli 
i knew enough. 

tSueh a cold makes a terrible theft; 
Ol your Inngs not a half an ounce is left. 
Here is my balsam; it will restore a man to liealth 
When he is tore away froiai life; 
Will fit him tor another strife. 
Try it! try it! noble Kinu'; 
And how your disease will take wing; 
And tlie birds of the air my praise sliall sing. 
I beg yi'si, with my eyes full of tears, 
Try it and you shall live for a tliousand years. 
2d Doctor. Oh! don't believe him; his tale is whim. 
He was in Babylon the greatest quack, 
And gave our professtrjta terrible crack. 
He and his stamp for our profession ;u'e bars; 
He kills more l)y his euros than Cyrus by all his wars. 
But here I have an herb so tine 
Extracted from the roots of the tree of knowledge 
Tliat sto )d in the ancient garden divine; 
It renews, puniies, creates blood; 
It pats a mortal in the happiest mood; 
Strange, very strange it does SDun;l, 
l)Ut the .L;ar!:-ind of truth it wears jiround. 
I was in Egypt to learn my profession; 
Now I shall make an open confession. 
1 had jiist got my receipt; 
Its virtues I v/i!l not again repeat. 
My teacher was a iamous magician; 
Erom Ethiopia he came, bnt when 
I cmld n!)t tell. He suddenly died. 
Well, among the pupils I was his favorite. 
So left this receipt; this marvelous piece of knowledge; 
That was wealth when I left my college, 
l^y his death 1 was friendless and lonesome; 
Left the city and come 
Out iu the mountains to take a stroll; 
Ramiile 1 about and got up on a knoll. 
By looking arounil I found a cave; 
Walked in and lo! it was an ancient grave. 
I saw there so manj^ tombs 
And mummies like bees in honeycombs. 
One especially attractetl my attention; 
A beautiful female, and I shall mention 
That her form and features struck ine by their beauty. 
1 did admire her; I thought it my duty. 
By reading the inscription on the frieze 



y Ci-(^L^*^ (pJxL 



(yr-iL^ Ol 



14 ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 

A famous king in EgyjJt's land 

And leader of a gallant bantl. 

Burial date her tomb not bears, 

But I think she liad laid there for two thousand years; 

It struck me now to try my herb; 

I put my phial to her lips, 

Whilst I stood trendjling on my tips; 

Oh! what a change! Oh! what a revenge! 

The blood came rushing np into her cheeks; 

I hid not been so scared for many weeks. 

"When she breatlied and arose, 

I wasn't far from losing my nose. 

She grabbed my bottle; drank its contents in a single 

dram, 

AVhilst T stood trembling like a lamb. 

And how will I descril)e my mootl, 

When slie stood a tiaz/.ling beauty in tlie prime of 

womanhood ? 

My reward was anytliing l)ut mean ; 

To-day she is of fasliinn in Memphis — a cjueen. 

From tliat hour my fame was universal; 

It spread tlie world over wide and far, 

For my science deatii has no hmger a bar. 
3d Doctor Give his tale no ear. 

A more infamous liar you never will hear. 

But here I have a pill which increases or ceases the 
growth of man at your will. 

And liere is my powder. 

It can make tiie unborn child into a mess of chowder. 

They are botii fruits of my own invention; 

Gotten up with a great intention. 

To check and control nature's course — 

Benevolent to a doctor's purse. 
Enter Philip. (Exeunt Doctors.) 
Alex. How is my case ? 

Am I in danger ? 
PhiIj. If deaih not in your system ranger, 

This medicine will jjrove an avenger. 

We will tri st in your youth and strong constittition; 

But not cherish a fab e illusion — against a will of the 

Gods 

Our efforts make little odds. 

(Hands him a goblet) 

(Alex, takes it and gives Philip a letter), 

(Drinks the contents whi st Philip is reading.) 
Alexander. Now what do you think of Parmenios letter? 

It is not so good but it might been better. 

He writes that Darius briibed m.- to fix up some poison 
in it, in vonr medicine mix. 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. l-j 

Another of Parmenio's malicious tricks. 
Alex. My confidence in yon is too wide awake for any slan- 
derer to sluike. 

ScKXE IV — Battle of Issns — Alexander addresses his army. 
Alex. See Persian columns fillinf;; up the pass; 

But soon one Pludanx shall open up their mass. 
Asia's des])0t and his serlish swarms shall not stop the 

(jretian freemens' arras. 
Nor these hirelings who, to him have sold, 
Country, honor and their lives for gold 
They out-number us by ten to one! 

Bat if their arrows darken tlie sun, and be their num- 
bers twenty times as large, 
We count them not, hut 
Forward I Foward ! Charge ! ! 
Scene V — Persian camp, Persians flying-— Tables spread for a 
bancjuet — Noise of the battle — Darius rushing in, throws 
away his arms and royal attire — Sisygamhis, Statira, Rox- 
ana and their attendants. 
Dar. I'ntbrtunate, unlucky star ! 

Vvhicli led me to this mountain liar. 

Where my countless host against the hardy (J reeks of 

one success can boast. 
When we from this part have tied, 
Bolder and bolder they will push ahead. 
Wait till we get tliera out on o>ir plain, 
Then we will have our revenge again. 
Sesk;. You were told not to go into the tight; 

The stars' positions were anytljingliut right. 
Dar. Wluit have they to do with our wars. 
I trust in armies, not in stars. 
(The (rreeks are heard c(uning) 
(Exeuit Darius.) 
Statira. Oh, cruel fate! 1 wish I conld f()llo\v. 
But oh, too late. 

H irrible our lot to be left without protection. 
Trusting to our enemies' att'ection. 
Roxaxa. I have been told that Alexander so tierce and bold, has a 
lieart as pure and as tine as gold. 
Enter Alexander and his followers. 
Hail you noble queens, 
T know what your sorrow means; 
You are left destitute without protectiim. 
Be assured of mv atfection; 
But where did Darius go ? 
Statira. horror ! Tale of woe ! 

He may be killed In- the pursuing foe. 
He fled and left liis royal arms. 
And theret)v threw awav the charms 



1C, ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 

A\'luoh might liave saved his precious litV 

And ))r(Hi_o;ht hina mit oltliis horrible strife. 
Alkx. Oil, he is safe, his horse is fleet as a deer, 

None of my horsemen can get lo him near. 

Now, queen, we obey your voice 

And bring you safe to any place of your choice. 
SisY(;. May laurels around your temple wreathe, 

And may the future call you great. 
.'VLEX Don't flatter me, ladies fair, 

With us it is no custom rare lo slusw the gentle sex 

attention. 

A custom so f)ld it's not worth mention. 

To do for the ladies the very best, 

Was always a rule we kept in the west. 

Ptolemy, give ear to my voice. 

And bring these ladies to a place of their choice. 
( Exeunt ladies and Ptolemy.) 

A Li'X. Now comrades' for a feast, 

A recreation we deserve at least 
After this glorious battle. 
Now let g()l)lets and dishes rattle. 
(They set down) 
('as. By the miahty Hercules ! 

Now we can boast of our success. 
Well might the Persian women weep. 
Their heroes fled before us like sheep. 
Heph. When Darius from his chariot leaps, the victory was 

reaped. 
Sel, The charge Alexander bravely led 
Whilst Darius like a coward fled. 
Ci.iTUS. Ho is Darius' cowardice the ladder on which Alexander 

will rise. 
Cas. What about the Persian stars, 

Their trustees and protecting bars, ? 
Astrologers are their surest guide, 
But I think they had better hide; 
Their horoscope nuist have been wrong, 
Or else they lied in their song. 
If they their believers did inspire. 
They only yielded to their own desire; 
Perhaps they made a blimder. 
Their glasses not clean nor taken assunder. 
With all respect I should call them lucky. 
If they, for their neglect, to the cross be not nailed 
For having the future so clumsily unveiled. 
Alp:x. Thanks and glory to the gods of Greece, 
Soon we shall capture the Golden Fleece. 
(Shouts, Flourish.) 
Cas. PTere is to Alexander, 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 17 

Oiii- stern commander ! our hero! our king ! 

The leading spirit in our galhiat rin?. 
(Sli Hits, Flourish.) 
Ai.EX. Here is to my army: Witli men of your isind. 

My enemies numbers I never need mind; 

Everything must to your valor yield, 

The fate of battles from this we wield. 
(Shouts, Flourish.) 
Alex. What do you think of the Persian ladies? 

Don't you think they Avere pretty and fair, 

Although they were weighted down with sorrow 1 1 1 

care ? 
Cas. Their veils hinder me in seeing their faces; 

Next tiiey apjiearso distant, 

^Vliich becomes in such cases. 

I think they were pretty — I think they were roses, 

Judging from what I saw — the tips of their no.ses. 

What a foolish etiquette they obey, 

And let themselves go round like dummies. 

And be wrapped up like mummies. 
Alex, No, I prefer the women of Greece, 

They are not so subjective, do more as they please. 

In dress and appearance suit comfort and ease; 

Love and affection from tlieir hearts never can be torn, 

Of them and them only heroes are born. 
(Shouts, Flourish) 

ACT III, 
Scene I — Tyre in ruins — Alexander and Army. 
Alex. Another siege, bloody and h ng. 

Another carnage and woeful song; 
A leaf in my history, stained with blood, 
Still, partial evil is sometimes universal good. 
Dejit. It servetl them right. 

They shall not again boast of their might; 
They thought tliey were secure by their strong po- 
sition — 
Their channel and wall. 
Thev thought we were not in c{Midition, 
They trusted to Baal; 
We had no siiips to get across; 
They thought themselves safe from loss. 
Till we found means to build this mole 
So we might show ourselves like lords. 
And give them a test of onr flashing swords, 
Alex. I should have fared milder with them. 

But to stop the soldiers were all in vain. 
They turned deaf ears to my orders 
AVhen I would discipline maintain. 
Cal. It would be imprudent to stop their sway; 



IS ALEXANDER THE (^REAT. 

They, too, must sometimes have tlieir own way. 

They are humans like we. 

Ami also must have some liberty. 
Pt(»li-,.-\iv. The downfall of Tyre 

Will prove an example good, 

,vnd hrinji otlier cities in a peaceable mood. 
(Enters Jews from Jerusalem) 
Is.Jkw. Hail yon e(;n(|Ueror great I 

Your fame has hlled our ears of late. 
Alex. Hail you sons of ancient nation ! 

Is peace and friendshij) the occasion which brought 

you to me ? 
2nd Jkw. Surrender will we on tliis condition, 

That we are lel't in our (dd position: 

Worship the (rod our forefathers saw. 

And live obedient to Moses' law. 
Alkx. But you shall pay a tribute light, 

Pay one hundred talents, and with niaiii and might 

I will you from your enemies protect; 

Yourselves too weak to give vour rights effect. 
8d Jew. This tribute is enormous high, 

It will ruin our country, our nation will die. 

(), we are very poor ! (). we are very poor ! 

Do you know how we were roblied on the moor? 

Neljuchadnezzar, that cursed thief! 

Great woes over Israel's children did heap. 

He bui-ned our city. 

He burned our temple, 

He stole our treasure. 

Not a copper did he leave to Babylon, he brought our 

nation; them 

Kepi us for seventy years in a ])en. 

We might have l)een there yet in slavery, 

But godly Cyrus gave us liberty. 

He sent us home to build i p our temple and city. 

Blessed shall he be for his u-ndness and pity. 

This you see was a terrible snuish. 

Hardly is healed the wounds ot the lash. 

It in onr memory i'rightful whi})ples. 

And we are nothing yet l)Ut cripples. 
Alex. How much can you pay ? 
4th Sew. I'll see. A sum of twenty-five talents is all we can 

raise; sure as I'm alive. 
C'as. Don't be long with them dunning. 

Don't you see how they are cunning? 
Alex. Their stoiw is true to my knowledge; 

I read about them while in college. 

I will not alnise my might, 

But fare with them easy and light. 

Fiftv talents, how is that? 



ALEXANDEK THE GREAT. 19 

2nd Jew. Too high a price even that. 
■1th Jew to 2d Jew. Never mind his frown, 

Jew liim down brother! Jew him down ! 
Alex. This is more tlian my patience can bear; 

Pay iifty talents or fate with Tyre ye share. 
Jews. Down before you lay our wealth, 

Pray keep the sword still in your belt. 
Ciioux'S. To good terms we got him down; 

How well we avoided his rage and frown, 
How well we played our ancestral harp. 
That man wlio will cheat us must be sharp. 
In battles his equal cannot be found, 
But in our treaties we wind him round. 
How well we deceived him by tale and whim — 
In trade we are too smart for him. 
Scene II — Alexander and followers. 
AliEX. I have a plan, it's not vile; 

I'll found a city at the mouth of the Nile, 
Give unborn bards theme for a verse, 
A centre of the world's commerce. 
Chorus. Smooth and pretty assembling isle, 

Glides along the ancient Nile; 

Carried by this mighty stream, 

Fleets of vessels safe can teem. 

And here the ocean rolls its waves. 

Girths the isles of Helios — 

With our ancestors' graves. 
Alex. From Darius I had an offer; 

True it is good — it means no scoffer. 

He proposes to make peace, 

Of ten thousand talents his ti-easure will ease. 

And of his dominions west of Euphrates 

He gives me a lease. 

His proposals are anything but mean; 

He wants his daughter to be my queen. 

Parmenio is my councellor wise, 

He takes a great delight in my rise. 

He said: "If I was Alexander, proud and haughty, 

I would not wander such splendid offers ! 

I would feel highly honored, too." 

I said yes, so would I, if I were you. 

I'll go to Jupiter's temple, sacrifice to the mighty God; 

His blessing shall be a nuigic rod. 

In my hand it shall be a mighty tool, 

Whereby I the nations can easily rule. 

Scene III — .Jupiter's temple — Priests and Priestesses. 

1st Priest. Our stars brightlv shine; 



•>0 ALEXANDFJl THE CiREAT. 

Alexandi'r's sacrifice to r tein])le divine lias conio. 

Hundred talents — quite a sum. 
2n PRiK.<r. We Avill have our temple I'e-built, 

Jupiter's iir,a;j;e renewed — our altar gilt. 
;>d Priest. This old wooden block, 

But we will have him in marble cut. 
1st Pbik.stess. Our gardens are greatly in need of repair, 

( )ur only resort when we need fresher air. 
2d Pbikst. If Pm allowed to have a voice, 

I propose some flowers from P)abylon after my choice. 
3d Pbiest. Sisters, listen to what I will say, 

Still I don't mean to have my own way. 

Suppose we have some new dresses of the latest pattern 
to us from Memphis sent. 

You don't call it an evil passion 

To yield a little to the rage of fashion. 

Some would surely call it vile. 

But oh, how I would like lo dress in the latest style ! 

Good gracious ! we dress like the dead in our grand- 
mother's time, 

When Camljyses stained all Egypt with vice and 

crime. 
4th Pkikstess. T don't feel so worldly and gay, 

I am getting old when the truth 1 shall say. 

I have to manage and watch like an owl, 

And think more of the good of our fowl. 
4th Pkiett. It is all very tine indeed, 

To spend our treasure with speed; 

Nobody thinks of our cellar's supply — 

I speak the truth — never lie. 

We have only one hogshead spared; 

Blessed be King Pharoah, he for us cared. 

Of that wine he to our temple sent, 

Before he down in the Red Sea went, 

It's now getting sour and old. 

Would nf>t drink it for the sake of gold. 

I think we need a refreshment here. 

We who foHp*ufc-this holy temple care. 
Enter Alexander and followers. 
Alex. Hail ye servants of a God mighty and just ! 

I l)rought a sacrifice in golden dust. 

I like to be of Jupiter's blest. 

And get my name on his sacred list. 
1st Priest. Hail to conquering Alexander ! 

In Ju]jiter's grace he henceforth wander. 
(To the Priests and Priestesses) 

Brothers and sisters pray, 

Bend your beads down to the clay. 
(Lightning and Thunder — then Jupiter's voice) 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 21 

Alexander, 1113' son, concjner in my name, 

An<l immortal be your fame. 
SoEXE IV— Battle of Arbeja — Alexander' .s ai-my in battle 
order, and he asleep. 
( A voi^■e in tlie air) 

Wake Alexander ! wake ! 

The world is at stake ! 

King of heroes wake ! 

See the sun is rising o'er tlie ^lain; 

Wake to battle and to glory again. 

(A little ))oy beating a drum, speaks) 

Father says the army is ready, 

-VU are waiting for you to come; 

So he sent me out to call you with my drum. 
Alex. Beat y(,ur drum my little drummer boy. 

Beat your drum your simple little toy. 

Beat your drum, the deciding day has come; 

My little darling, beat your drum. 

(Alexander addresses his army.) 

Now here again our enemy stands at bay. 

This be the last and the deciding day. 

We hail them all and merrily them greet. 

The day is ours, and ^Vsia at our feet. 

Long be remembered the battle on the plain. 

The gallant deeds of Alexander's men. 

L;mg after smouldered to dust our bones, 

(Jur deeds shall glitter on the sculptor's marble stones; 

Hatreds and envy's voices to hush; 

We furnish coloi-s for the painter's brush. 

And he who struggles for a name 

Shall feel ins}nred by onr hard won fame. 

And be though it seems he struggles but in vain, 

Shall strive and jjush and battle forth again. 

And through all eternity the greatest of your gains 

You fought with me and con(iuere(l on the world's 

fateil j)lains. 
ScENf: V— After the battle. 
Alex. Oh, glorious happy day ! 

Thanks to the Gods, now we have the sway, 

Broken forever is Darius' main. 

1 am Asia's sovereign. 

How gallantly our soldiers fought; 

What faith tliey show in me. 

Thev are guided by my secret thought, 

And I forward go to victory. 

No wonder their faith is blind — 

My own is of a similar kind. 

From doubts and fears mv heart is free; 



22 ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 

No power can ehange my destiny, 
Cas. Since yon Jnpiter'.s .'^on must call, 

You think yourself .securely walled. 
Alex. How it was, I cannot'say. 

The night before a battle day, I courted sleep in vain, 

Was neruous, restless and in pain 

By thinking of the breaking day. 

Fame :ind glory looked so vain. 

When I thought of the blood that was to be shed, 

And knowing it was me who led, 

I often wished I was no King 

Nor leader in tlie war gods' ring. 

Last night I slept as sound as if I lived in happy peace, 

And the coming day a day of ease — 

And not for slaughter bound. 
Ssii. Now here the Persians had their plain — 

Their chosen battle ground; 

But their efiorts were all in vain. 

They for defeat were bound. 
Dent. How could they ever gain the day 

With leaders as they got? 

I saw Darius, their noble king, 

.furap from his chariot. 

Mount a horse and take the flight 

Before the lines were broke; 

Instead he ought to kejjt his stand 

And made a gallant stroke. 
Ptl, And they were tired from standing, 

And all night under arms; 

Not to be taken by surprise. 

But ready for alarms. 
Cas. a prudent order, very wise. 

So is my true belief just worthy the great Darius, 

Their famous, gallant chief. 
Alex. Don't mock him, comrades ! mock him not ! 

He is unfortunate; 

His career is downward bound, 

His star is on the set. 
Cas. Your star is rising, T have no doubt. 

You play your part so tine; 

You give such great and liberal gifts 

To all the temple shrine. 
Alex. Stop now with your blasphemy, 

Y'ou take too much liberty. 

Will your ridicule never cease? 

You hardened intidel of Greece; 

For Babylon, the famous city. 

Lender Persian rule an object for pity. 

Now up for this grand ohl nest, 



ALKXANDKK THi': (iKKAT. 2>l 

Where we can on our laiii'els rest. 
vSf'KNE V r — Babylon — Priests — Citizens — Women — (Musie) 
Crowd. Welei.ine I Welcome! Alexander Great I ! 

Of yo'.i we have heard so much of late. 

AVill yon chant^e our. sadly fate, 

And t(ive our city rateamont>' the c;rand and glorious? 

Yon are victorious. 
Alex. Old IJahylon so gay and fast 

.Shall capital be for Jiiy kiufjdom vast. 
HuiHP. The temple of Reins, our mighty o-od, 

Ry Cyrus was struck with an iron rod 

[n ruins since it ever laid, 

The tyrants over ns cruelly swayed. 

We were not allowed to keep our vow, 

And to his holy altar bow. 
Alkx. His !i(dy temple shall be re-biult, 

r sacrifice give him, costly and gilt. 
PsTs. Rut you must under our guidance l)e; 

Re prudent, ilon't take sudi liberty. 

In strangers Relus takes no delight. 

Beware of his wrath and godly might. 
Alkx. Yourselves to jdease, put your god to comfort and ea.se. 

Y'on better know how his notions ranger 

Than I, in Babylon, a stranger. 

Ladies, how will this change you please? 

Will it improve your pleasure and ease? 
Ii.\DiKs. Oh, eharnung ! charming it will Ije; 

We will have more liberty. 

We w\U see the glorious days of old, 

The days of splendors, feasts and gold, 

In flirtations, courting, love and kiss, 

Kcsemble the days of Simiramis. 

Oh, what magnificent dresses we shall wear I 

And proudly the standard of fashion liear. 

(^ur husband's we shall stop in their song. 

Of taxes, troubles, hard times and throng. 

How well they shov.'cd us how Persian fashion saves, 

Hardened misers, ungrateful knaves. 

ScBNK VI— (Banquet). 
Alkx. a month spent in a continual feast. 

I am getting tired to say the least. 
Cah. [ think we need a reereatiou, 

After our long, toilsome invasion. 

80 I will make use of this occasion. 

Their wine is a grand success. 

Their women's charm is none the less. 

If not for Thaisas charm. 

Mv rest would been short in Rabvlon's arm. 



04 A L EX AXDEil TH E ( i R i ; A T. 

oil, wliiit a bewitching, dazzling Lfau.tv ! 
Deiiiaiidinj,^ love and wr.rsliip as a duty. 
Clit, By Mar.s ! your love is getting ripe. 
AiiEX. She is a model of our llellenie tvpe; 

She is the image of Venus, our lovely goddess. 
CijIT. Her name for virtue is none the less. 
Alex. 1 saw her iirst in Athens grove, 

But my heart had little room for love. 
Now here in Babylon we met. 
Clit. And now she's got you in her net. 
AiiEX. I sent for her to come down, 

And by her presence our bancjuet i'rf)wn; 
To queen 1 will rise her, and give her the lead. 
Clit. A worthy queen indeed ! 

(Enter Thaisa and attendants). 
Alex. Hail Thaisa! queen of beauty, 
We pay her homage as a duty. 
(They sit down — Bullet.) 
Alex. Day is lu-eaking; wenuist go forth. 

Be^sus is gathering troops in the Noi-th. 
Let us hurry, and hy surprise. 
Crush him before he has time to rise. 
( Exeunt generals. ) 
Alex. 1 uuist leave you and go witli speed. 
Thaisa Oh, let some of your generals take the lead. 
Alex. If 1 am not at my warriers lead, 

Little praise will my history read, 
A new Sardanapalus would be my name. 
And small the place for honor and fame. 
Farewell, Thaisa ! my ideal ! my goddess I 
My sun ! My prize for toil in battles won. 
(Exunt Alex.) 
Thai. At last I got upon the stand, 
My longing hearts desire. 
Thanks, Venus, lovely goddess, thanks. 
You rose me I'rom the mire. 

A child of humble origin, wlih chances low and mean, 
Shall of a proud and haughty world, 
Be hailed as ruling (lueen. 

From Sicily, my native isle, to Athens I did roaju, 
To win a fortune was my aim, 
I stood in beauty's bloom. 
I found admirers by the sc(U-e, but none my heart 

could lease, 
Till I young Alexander saw — the rising star of Greece. 
Oh, how I watched his career so glorious and bold, 
And oh. how often did I dream I wore his crown of 

gold. 
Mv dream shall be realitv — 



ALEXANDER niM GREAT. 25 

A queen in beautj'^riag, 

A wortliy bride 1 think I ;in>, 

Vov the nn!)[e hero king-. 

W^hen now the royal crown I wear, 

The world shall know my mood; 

Those wild have insulted me shall tremble for their 

Itlood. 
Now ('litus treats me with contempt. 
Pr mdly on me looks down; 

He thinks it is despicable for me to wear a crown. 
When I at last have reached my point — am Alexan- 
der's bride, 
The crimson drf>ps from Clitus' heart 
Shall heal my wounded pride. 

ACT IV. 

ScENK I — Barrria — Darius in cha'ns — Bessus and followers. 
Bes Come ! Come! no longer tarry we, 

Alexander is advancing rapid'y. 
Dar. No ! I'll slay and for Alexander wait — in him I have 

fate. 
In his generosity i a in a 1)e'iever, 
He is not like you a treachei'ons false deceiver. 
Bes. On the ruins of your T)ower, 
I will l)nild my royal tower. 
Dar. Fine castles you build in the air, 

Soon Alexander will give you a scare. 
Bes. (_'ome now, or lia.ve a row. 
Dar. Not an inch fiirther than this. 
Bes. Well, then, talcc my bliss. 

(Stabs him, Darius fails and dies) 
(Lxeunt Bessus and followers — Enter Alex and followers) 
Ai-EX. By Achilles! Here lies the unhappy Darius — poor his 

success. 
Still we nuist pity liim none the less. 
Bleeding, his liansis tied with chains, 
Lies Darius. Asia's Sovereign. 
Bessessr.s and followers work upon my woril, 
They themselves condemn, 
They sliall i)e put to tlie sword. 
Selucus ! take ten t!u>usand warriors brave; 
Hinit them, slay them ! 
But give them no grave. 
Leave them for raven and vulture as feed, 
A punishment for their cruel deed. 
First then, can Darius rest in peace? 
Flis cries for vengeance w'ill cease. 
(Takes his cloak and covers the corpse — Weeps). 
Speaks: On the uncertainty of life's glory. 



2(i ALKXaNDKU TlIK CHEAT. 

A |iruiil' indeeil. lleix' lies Ik- wlio ruice was at the leail 

of millions. 
Tlie son of inherited power. 
Reared in spiendoi's and luxury's shower, 
i^it <5n his aneestor's throne kiunv no law but the will 

of his own. 
He represented forms in deeay; 
Jie I'ould not *tand lor the tempest's sway. 
His death was rude; 

He shall he buried with all the pomp and splendor 
becoming one oi' royal blood. 
ScEXK JI— Palaee near Persepolis — Thaisa; enter Alexander.) 
TfTAT. Oh, Heaven ! Oh how I am glad to see you baek again 
For 1 have ijot a great eomplaint — 
No, I'll tell you plain. 

The ladies in Per.sepolis for me have shown disgust; 
It causes my heart to beat so wild andciierish hatred's 

lust (Cries. 
Oil, listen, \lexander, dear ! 
if we this haughty band. 
To-night give them a lire so grand; 
A sight inagniticent and grand, 
And it will please me best 
To know they are all destroye<i, 
The whole infernal nest. 
AiiKX. No, .such an act too cruel is. 

And heaven's wrath would come down on me for des- 
troying Persepolis, 
A jewel in my crown. 
'1'ii.ii. Oh, Alexander ! You are weak; 
How will you think to rule 
If you will let your subjects lead'.' 
You are nothing but a tool. 
If you the rains of government slack and don't keep 

tighi. 
You will lind yourself low on the ground: 
Downirodilen from your height. 
Some of your faithful generals to royalty aspire, 
They wait for opportunity to larry their desire. 
Alkx. I know, and have taken measures rude 
To kill it in its blossom and bml. 
(Enter Demetrius with Parmenio's head. 
Demt. Here is old Parmenio's head. 

Y'ours and your father'.s phalanx he often led. 
Faithful and brave till later, 

He turned out a traitoi-; (throws it down. Thai.sa 

kicks the head. ) 
Speaks: Y'ou olil avaricious, ambitious head. 
Many a wise and clever plan you laid. 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 



AliEX. 

Alex. 
Clit, 



TlIAISA 

Alex. 

TlIAISA. 



Alex, 



Ptln. 



C'ltt. 



Alex. 



Ptol. 



How to increase the wealth and .station for your tribe, 
But not for your nation. 

You blind worshipper of riches and glory vain, 
Now a j)laything for my foot, 1 must kick you again — 

(kicks the head). 
Scene III — Banquet. 
Here is to Thaisa ! handsome and fair! 
A royal crown she soon shall wear. ( All drink but Clitus) 
Wtiy don't you drink to Thaisa's health ? 
1 don't approve of her fortune and wealth. 
You are insulting, but I will let it pass away; 
No quarrel shall over our pleasure have sway. 
How is our fire ? 
l^'orget your wicked desire. 
Now is the time for you to be firm. 
Or else come down to their term. 
Well, I spoke and told the trutli 
That mutiny among your men takes root. 
Show yourself as the (ireat Alexander, 
Let them know that you not like a shadow wander. 
Ptolemy ! take a luuidred of my guard. 
And I'll give you a good reward; 
Show neither mercy nor pity ! 
From four corners put lire to the city. 
But hurry, sf) we can enjoy this grand sight 
Whilst at our banquet to-night. 
You must be insane ! 

Burn a city to sooth a woman's wicked and vain, 
Go ! or your head lies low ! 

(Exeunt Ptolemy.) 
Here is to King Philip's memory. 
He was a leader for men who are free. 
He was a hero in the field. 
In battles he car';ied high his shield. 
He was a comrade when in camp, 
And in the council he slume as a lamp. 
Little did he care for dazzle, whim and twitter; 
His motto: ''Not gold all that glitter I'' 
He loved simplicity and was plain; 
He had no desire for glory vain; 
He was satisfied to be called a good king. 
He did not as})ire to a seat in the God's own ring. 

(Drinks, Shouts.) 
I thiuik you, Clitus, 1 thank you all 
For holding my father's memorv up so tall. 
Although at myself was thrown a ball. 

(Enter Ptolemy.) 
I have done vour will, 



28 



ALEXANDER TTfE GREAT. 



Tjiaira. 



Clit 
Alex. 



Hce if that your cu)) of joy can lill. 

Oil I magiiiiicent ! charming ! grand I 

1 isee the flanies with gohlcn hand 

Leaping up towards tlie skies, 

And oh I I liear the iiiiiahitants' cries. 

Charming ! like mr.sic it sounds in my ear, 

( )h, how deliglitful .' 

Wixat a joy for a mortal to bear. 

A deed which will highly increase your fame; 

Oh, we are getting proud of your name. 

What were the Macedonians hefore mv 



father them 
led ? 



Poor herdsmen; half sa\-ages s[)read. 
The Greeks, a little scattered band, 
Quarrelling, fighting, liand to hand. 
Who led you to conf(uest ? 
Who covered you with riches and spoil ? 
Who made you the lords of Asia's soil ?. 
When you by me no more are led. 
Like a frightened herd, you will scatter and spread. 
CliiT. Your sni)eriority we don't deny. 

To your vice and folly we will not apply. 
Ai.Ex. To my folly and vice '! 
Clit. You are led hy a woman we all despise. 
AiiKX. Your hand on the hilt ! 

Our blades shall soon be rudely gilt ! 
Clit. Do you see this hand and remember the strife 
At Granicus, when I saved your life? 
(Leaving — Alexander grabs a spear from the guards and stabs him. 
Speaks: All friendsiiip's ties are torn, 

And from our hearts must slip I 
Now, go ! to Philip. 
(Clitus falls, dies — Alexander throws liimself over the corpse I 
Speaks: Murdered ray foster brother ! 
My battle slneld ! 

Cursed be tiiis hour when I to passion yield, 
My power and fame, if I undone this strife, 
All would I give could I bring him to life — (faintsj 
Scene IV — Alexander — Thaisa — Alexander drinks — . 
Speaks. If I could not f(n- moments drown my memory in 

wine, 
I could not endure the wretched existence of mine. 
Thai. Oh, don't worry over the past; 

A few drops of blood — and of fire a little blast. 
Alex. But it was Clitus's blood I shed. 

My finest city into ashes laid. 
Thai. Cheer up again, be Alexander the Great; 

Go to war with India; fresh laurels round your temple 

wreath. 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 29 

Don't let your conscience cut so keen, 
Remind your love and me rise to queen. 
AijEX. Never ! My love is dead 

Since Clitns's blood I shed. 
That. P.y the eternal Venus's cart ! 

Are you void ot soul and heart? (faints) 
(Enters Philip — Alexander tears himselt away, j 
Speaks: Phillip, take her in your care, 

My arms I must to India bear. (Exeunt.) 
Thaisa recovers, speaks: Oh ! Venus Ll^ly protectoress help; 
I feel so weak, so mean. 
My show is gone ! forever gone ! to be the ruling 

queen. 
Oh, heaven, my poor heart is broke, 
I cannot bmg survive, 
This was to me a deadly stroke. 
Plow worthless is ray life. 
Oh, how I wish I had controlled myself when yet in 

time. 
Not given evil passions sway — I sutler for my crime. 
My lamentations are in vain, 
Repentance conies too late, 

1 am doomed to sutler death— yield to my cruel fate. 
Philip, you are true and good; tell me ! tell me I pray 
If at Olympus gate shall Alexander see? 
Phil. Ifvou, as Alexander's biide, were faithful in your 

love, 
Be convinced you shall meet Olympus' holy grove. 
Thais. Oh, what acomfort ! what an ease; 
My spirit now takes wing; 

Death for me no terror has, it lost the dreadful sting. 
May heaven bless you, Phillip good, 
What comfort you me gave. 
To Alexander you shall bring, my blessing from the 

grave. 
Long may he reign and ghu-ious. 
And be the peoples' cboice. 

Tell him that his name so dear was in my dying voice. 
(She dies.) 

ACT V. 

(Desert) Scene I — Alexander's Army.) 
Alex. Oh, Avhat a heat ! 

Of the desert sun I am badly beat. 
It smothers me — melts my brain; 
And all our search for water is vain. 
In this sunburnt, dried up plain. 
This paradise for snake mid lizard; 
This horrid, Ood-forsaken desert. 



30 alexant)]-:r the (mieat. 

Enter soldier: Here, my King- ! is a little water 

I hailed up in my helmet — I had no cnp. 
(Alexander takes the helmet.) 
Speaks: Whv should 1 be tlic onJv one who drinks in tlie 

band ? 
No, comrades, I'll give it baek to the desert's sands. 
(Throws it on thegronnd.) 
Chorus of soldiers: Lon<;- live ,u:reat Alexander, 
Our brave and noble King ! 
Through hardshijjs, toil and danger 
He leads oiu- gallant ring; 
And gladly we liim follow. 
And will obey his voice, 
And go to the farthest {.md oftlie world 
If so might be his choice. 
Scene II — India — Alexander's Camp after the battle with Fori s- 
Demt. This was about the hardest battle I ever fought, 
To find such a resistance I never thought. 
Ptl. King I'orus is a gallant Ibe. 
Sel. Indeed, he's a lici'o. 

And how. long he kept us at bay. 
Car. His elephants have a terrible sway. 
Till we at hist gave them a fright, 

Got them turned so they broke the Indian's lines and 
and put thein to flight. 
(Enter Porus with a guard.) 
Alex. How do your wish your treatment to be? 
PoE. Like a King ! Give me liberty. 
Alex, I Avill give you all your pos.sessions and liberty, 

And you will from this be a friend to me, 
PoR. You give me my rights and liberty, 
A trusty friend I henceforth shall be. 
If you in resources and means be light, 
I'll serve you with all my might. 
(Shake hands'.) 
(Exeunt Pormenio — Bucephalus' grave— Alexander's horse. 
Alex. Here lies Bucephalus, my charger, brave, 
A true servant, we honor his grave. 
Impatiently his hoof cut up the ground, 
He champed his bit and foamed, 
When orders to charge I gave. 
He carried me through the thick of many a battle; 
He neighed, lifted his head; lie loved the clank and 

armor's rattle. 
No more he hears the trumpets blow, 
Now his proud head lies low. 

I take this as a warning that my career of wars must 

come to a close; 



ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 31 

No more of the battlefield's laurel and rose. 
My men are tired, they want rest, 
Break up the camp! March homeward, west! 
Soldiers. Your order Avith joy we obev; 

We had enougli of the battle's sway; 
We had enough of danger and toil; 
We are longing for our native soil. 
No longer tight for the Golden Fleece; 
But homeward march to Greece. 
Scene HI — (Persia) Susa, Alexander's Court. 
Alex. Now hear my plan; 

How I my universal kingdom establish can. 

I think it will be the best 

By intermarriages to unite the East and West. 

We will subdue our Hellenic pride; 

I choose the good Roxana for my bride. 

Among the fair daughters of Persia and Babylon take 

your choice; 
The rest will follow your example and voice. 
By this give the subdued conquered nations, 
Of liberality and forbearance some rations; 
And hatred and prejudice which they to us bear will 

disajipear. 
It has for ages been the conquering nation's right; 
At least they called it so, for they had the might 
To make the subdued slaves. 
Cruelty, barbarism for justice it craves. 
Their carriers of water and hewers of wood- 
No! I am of a different mood — ■ 

1 will root out these old, stifled ideas as far as I can; 
They only stagnate the prosperity of man. 
Enter Cas. with a robber. 
Cas. Here I bring a robber of note; 

He took liberty with pockets in many a rich man's coat; 
He and his gang like devils fought, 
'Till they were overpowered and cauglit. 
The rest we hung in yonder palmgrove; 
That will break their desire to rove. 
Alex. How dare you rob the travelers on our roads? 
Robber. I only meant to ease their burdens and loads. 

Alex. You shall die and suffer great pain. 
RoBBEB, I am ready and cherish no hopes in vain; 
These tortures I can bear; 
In my death I shall show no fear. 
Alex. There is something about him bold and grand; 
What made you be a leader for such a band? 
RoBBEB. Your example, my King, to speak out plain. 



32 alp:xaxder the great. 

AiiEX. Yoli must be insane! 
RcjiJBEB. I will exijlain. You armies lead and battles won, 

Bold and victorious. 

The people hailed you as the (ireat and said iiow glo- 
rious. 
Young Alexander,so they said, he makes the nation free; 

He breaks the chains which bound ns down, he gives 

ns liberty. 

This started me on my career, for glory I was vain; 

But being reared in poverty my means Avere small and 

plain. 

I had no army 1 could lead nor wield at my command, 

So I jiicked up a few of my kind and formed a robber 

band. 

What you have for nations done with great success, 

I did for individuals in misery and distress. 

So when I met these lords of wealth, 

Who little cared for right, 

I took with them some liberty. 

1 made their purses light. 

1 then divided out the spoil. 

To those who were in need; 

So is my crime, so is my guilt. 

For which I now shall bleed. 

So were my motives and desires. 

King, noble, great and higli. 

1 now have told the naked truth 

And am prepared to die. 
Alex. With our usual rule I take liberty. Go! be free. 
Robber. Your fame and glory shall never die; 

Your name will be kept in honor high. 

Scene IV — Babylon— A room in a Palace. 
Al^EX. How can it be that I feel so melancholy; 

So void of ambition and energy. 

Oh, the past is overwhelming me! 

Oh, the shadows of tbe past! 

If I could destroy my memory ^ n L 

And silence conscience's voice. Ci/' ^-^XA^ —^ 

But no! it goes beyond my power. 

Although I can destroy my senses' tower; 

Dull and deaden the feelings of mine 

By drinking freely of this here wine. (Drinks.) 

I feel refreshed; my spirit takes a bolder Hight; 

If not fortius nectar, joy and happiness would be light; 

Still happier had I never yielded to its might. 

How it grieves me that Hephastian should die; 

So young and robust, in station high. 

Oh, the fever rages in my blood 

And puts me in a dreary mood. 



alexandp:r thp: great. 33 

My health is broke 

By toil, hardship and dissipation's stroke. 

Should my career come to an end? 

No! I trust in Philip's skill; he my health can mend. 

Eelus's priests warned me from entering Bal)ylon 

Before his sacred least was over. 

Oh. superstition I will recover. 

The gods cannot cut me ofi' in my prime; 

It will be unjust; it will be a crime, 

I long enough with melancholy fought; 

I will cheer up and throw away this dark and gloomy 

thought, (drinks.) 

Now the view is brighter; 

My thoughts are getting lighter. 

Am I not the great Alexander? 

As the world's conqueror proudly I wander. 

Am I not in manhood's prime. 

The leading spirit of my time? 

And the nations me adore, 

For their rights my arms I bore. 

My young wife promises an heir. 

The crown of my vast kingdom to wear. 

.^nd last: Euphrates' waters bore Niarchus and his 

Fleet, the explorers of Persia's unknown shore. 

Their enterprises fruits will to the future yield; 

Their names be sparkling diamonds on my shield. 

If not for the past I now should be 

The happiest in mortality. 

But I will banish it and away from my memory cast. 
(Drinks. Enter Clitus's spirit.) 
Alex. Clitus! Clitus! what brought vou here? 
C'lit. AVarning to you of death I bear. 

I stood in Olpmpia's hall when I heard Jupiter's call; 

His voice like thunder sound Clitus you are bound 

For Alexander, Tell that he not wander 

More under my protection; but with reflection 

Sliall look upon his life and be prepared to finish 

eiirthly strife 

So spoke the god on high: 

"Now, Alexander, you must die!" (P^xeunt spirit.) 
(He sinks down,) Enters Court. 
Alex. Roxana, my wife and queen, 

My understanding is getting keen. 

P^rom Jupiter I had a call; 

I now shall meet in Olympus's hall 

How pomp and splendor look pale and vain; C^E^t^ 

Roxana! you cannot hold the scepter; the ruling kmg.. 

Take the province of Susa for your domain. 
Roxana. O, calamity, misfortune, mishaps! 

Sliall my fortune's sim so soon elapse? 



ALEXAXDKR THE (IREAT. 

A crue'l iiite winds lis round; 

O, heavens, my star goes down. 
AiiEX. Comrades, my vast domains, east and west. 

Divide tliem as you can best. Who is the worthiest? 

Take this ring and be their ruling Icing. 
(The ring drojjs on the floor. Alexander dies.) 
I'liiLiP. Here lies the clay of Alexander; 

Give him his due and hear no slander. 

Conquerer of the world— and still his passic n"s slave — 

A great example he to mortals gave. 

He too was frail and made his blunder; 

But wliat he built, none but he could keep from fall- 
ing asunder. 

The waves of time will roil 

And wash down nation after nation. 

But to the last of this world's generation 

Is held in memory Alexander's name. 

So long as there is a world, immortal is his fame. 



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Entered aecording- to the Act of Congress, in tlie year ]t<S2. l)j- 

FREDERICK RICE, 

lu the Office ofthe Librarian of Congress, at Washington. All Rights Reserved. 



